MMSC vs VTI
MMSC vs VTI
First Trust Multi-Manager Small Cap Opportunities ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. MMSC delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MMSC | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $51M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 202 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +17.27% | +13.92% | |
| 1Y Return | +35.52% | +24.07% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.84% | +20.88% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.47% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -40.8% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 13, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
MMSC vs VTI Performance
First Trust Multi-Manager Small Cap Opportunities ETF (MMSC) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MMSC returned +35.52% while VTI returned +24.07%. Year to date, MMSC is up 17.27% versus a gain of 13.92% for VTI.
Over three years, MMSC compounded at +20.84% per year against +20.88% for VTI. Across the full 5-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs +7.18%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MMSC has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.5% compared with 15.3% for VTI. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -40.8% for MMSC and -56.6% for VTI. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MMSC charges 0.95% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $3 annually, a gap of $92 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MMSC currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MMSC and VTI share 149 holdings out of 2842 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in MMSC | Weight in VTI | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| CRDO | 1.82% | 0.06% | 1.76% |
| CRNX | 1.76% | 0.00% | 1.76% |
| BLDR | 1.34% | 0.00% | 1.34% |
| TVTX | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| BE | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| FCFS | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| GH | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| TWST | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| LASR | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| FROG | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings MMSC shares with VTI Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. Get FundXLS Pro: $29/moFirst 500 subscribers, then $49/mo. Cancel anytime. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MMSC or VTI?
MMSC has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $92 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MMSC or VTI?
Over the past year MMSC returned +35.52% vs +24.07% for VTI, so MMSC leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), MMSC annualized +7.18% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MMSC or VTI?
MMSC has been the more volatile fund at 21.5% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: MMSC -40.8% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MMSC and VTI?
MMSC and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MMSC and VTI?
MMSC and VTI share 149 common holdings with a 1.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2842 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MMSC or VTI?
MMSC yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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